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🐠 Discover Scuba Diving (Beginner Intro)

No certification needed: theory, pool practice and two guided reef dives to 12 m in half a day.

Price
$120–$150
Duration
3-5 hours
Season
year-round
Good for
Everyone

What to expect

  • Half-day PADI Discover Scuba program: theory briefing, confined-water practice, then 1-2 open water reef dives
  • Maximum depth 12 m (40 ft); instructor stays with you throughout
  • ~2,750 MXN (~$149) typical shop price; all equipment included
  • Marine park fee ~100 MXN/day paid at the shop
  • No certification issued — it's an experience program; dives can credit toward Open Water
  • Minimum age 10 at most shops
💵 Price check: Xico/Pura Vida ~$149 (2,750 MXN); Viator/GetYourGuide DSD listings $120-150

Good to know

Expect to pay between $120 and $150 USD per person depending on the operator, group size, and what is bundled in. For reference: Xico/Pura Vida ~$149 (2,750 MXN); Viator/GetYourGuide DSD listings $120-150.

Plan for 3-5 hours. Times vary slightly by operator and pickup location, and hotel pickup adds transfer time at each end.

No — this runs year-round in Playa del Carmen. December–April brings the driest weather and biggest crowds; September–October is quietest with the best prices.

It suits first-timers, families, and groups alike — no experience needed.

Bring your certification card if you have one, swimwear, and a towel — all dive gear is included in the price.

Dives cancel only when the harbormaster closes the port; cenote dives run rain or shine since they are fed by groundwater.

A day or two ahead is usually enough outside holiday weeks, and booking direct often lets you pick the exact departure time you want.

Many operators include round-trip transport from Playa del Carmen hotels or a central meeting point on 5th Avenue; others charge a small supplement or are self-drive. We confirm pickup details with your booking request before you pay anything.

Half-day PADI Discover Scuba program: theory briefing, confined-water practice, then 1-2 open water reef dives Maximum depth 12 m (40 ft); instructor stays with you throughout ~2,750 MXN (~$149) typical shop price; all equipment included
from $120–$150 USD

Tell us your dates — we confirm availability and the best current price with the operator. No prepayment, no markup.

Got it! We'll reply by email within a few hours with availability and exact pricing.
  • ✓ Free cancellation on most tours
  • ✓ No prepayment to us — pay the operator
  • ✓ Real humans who live on this coast

Photo: Intothewoods29 (talk), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

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